Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
If you’re longing for the comfort of gooey, bakery-fresh cinnamon rolls with a fun twist and none of the fuss, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is your shortcut to weekend brunch bliss. Imagine the flavors of soft cinnamon rolls baked into a warm, custardy casserole—each buttery bite draped with melty icing and kissed with maple syrup. Whether for a lazy Sunday, a holiday breakfast, or just because, this quick bake is guaranteed to put a smile on every sleepy face at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to a memorable Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole? Simple ingredients that deliver big rewards. Each one has its special role, from boosting flavor to ensuring that perfect, tender bite. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need and why these staples make this dish such a star.
- Refrigerated Cinnamon Rolls with Icing: Choose your favorite brand—these bring that classic swirl and sweet icing that everyone loves, and make breakfast prep ridiculously easy.
- Large Eggs: Eggs act as the binder, creating that rich, custardy texture that elevates humble cinnamon rolls into a delightful bake.
- Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and richness, turning the casserole perfectly soft on the inside.
- Ground Cinnamon: Because you can never have too much cinnamon flavor, a little extra boost rounds out the warmth in every mouthful.
- Vanilla Extract: This brings soft, aromatic notes that make the kitchen smell like a bakery by the time your casserole is done.
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness with a hint of caramel depth makes each bite undeniably comforting.
- Brown Sugar: For mellow sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Buttery richness to tie the whole custard together and keep every piece moist.
- Icing from Cinnamon Roll Packages: The dazzling finishing touch—drizzle it over the casserole while it’s warm for that irresistible bakery glaze.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray. This quick prep step ensures your Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole releases beautifully, with every swirl staying perfectly intact.
Step 2: Cut and Layer Cinnamon Rolls
Open both cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, set the icing aside for later (don’t lose it—it’s liquid gold!), and cut each roll into quarters. Spread the pieces evenly in your greased dish, creating a patchwork of cinnamon swirls that will puff and bake just like homemade.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk until everything is totally smooth and the cinnamon is fully integrated. You want this mixture to be rich and golden, as it’s the secret to that delicious, bread-pudding-style base.
Step 4: Pour Over and Soak
Pour your custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, making sure each one gets a little bath. Gently wiggle or press the rolls down so every bite soaks up that creamy, flavorful liquid. This step is key for a soft, fluffy center that’s never dry.
Step 5: Bake and Check
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is just set. If the top is browning a little fast, tent with foil during the final 10 minutes to protect that dreamy texture. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean—except for a little cinnamon swirl, of course!
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Remove the casserole and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the reserved icing generously over the top while it’s still warm, allowing it to seep into all the little crevices for extra stickiness and sweetness. Now, all that’s left is to dive in—preferably with coffee in hand.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Garnishes
While this dish is pretty irresistible as is, a dusting of powdered sugar gives it that bakery-showcase look. If you’re feeling extra, add fresh berries, toasted pecans, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole with savory sides like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a bright fruit salad. The sweet, spiced flavors of the bake balance perfectly with the saltiness of breakfast classics or the zing of citrus.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the casserole into squares and pile them on a cake stand for a festive brunch display, or serve in individual ramekins for a cozy touch. If you’re hosting a holiday brunch, let everyone drizzle on extra icing or maple syrup at the table for a hands-on treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—the flavors only get better as they meld together.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual servings or the whole casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To bring that fresh-from-the-oven taste back, reheat slices in the microwave for 30 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to add a drizzle of reserved icing after warming!
FAQs
Can I make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, take it out while the oven preheats, adding 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time. It’s the ultimate make-ahead brunch hero.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
You can! If you prefer homemade dough, cut it into small rolls and follow the recipe as written. Just make sure your dough isn’t too dense so it bakes up fluffy in the casserole.
What’s the best way to keep the casserole moist?
Don’t skip the custard step. Pouring the egg and cream mixture evenly and letting it soak in ensures your Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is always rich and never dry.
Can I swap the heavy cream for milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk or half-and-half if you prefer a slightly lighter casserole, but the heavy cream does bring the richest, silkiest texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free or allergy friendly?
Most refrigerated cinnamon rolls contain gluten and dairy, but you can look for gluten-free or dairy-free options if needed. Just be sure to check package labels and substitute as your dietary needs require.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistible about sharing a pan of Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole, hot from the oven and brimming with cozy, spiced sweetness. If you’re looking to brighten up your breakfast table or treat someone you love, give this recipe a try—you might just find it becomes a new family tradition.
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Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delicious and simple twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat, this casserole is easy to make and full of sweet, cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Icing from cinnamon roll packages
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread evenly in the baking dish.
- Mix the Ingredients: Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter. Pour over the cinnamon rolls.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and set. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Finish and Serve: Cool slightly, then drizzle reserved icing over the casserole before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate, adding extra baking time when ready.
- Enjoy warm with additional maple syrup or powdered sugar for a delightful brunch option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
